How Arkansas's Burn Permit System Works
Arkansas's forests cover about half the state, making wildfire management a consistent priority for the Arkansas Forestry Commission. County rangers are active and know local conditions well. The permit system is informal and relationship-based — a quick call to your county ranger station gets you a permit number and practical local advice on whether conditions are suitable for burning that day.
Getting a Arkansas Burn Permit
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Permit Agency | Arkansas Forestry Commission |
| Phone | (501) 296-1940 |
| Online Portal | https://www.agriculture.arkansas.gov/arkansas-forestry-commission |
| Cost | Free |
| Validity | Same day |
Seasonal Rules & Burn Bans
Spring (February–April) and fall (October–November) are peak fire risk periods. Summer is lower risk. Burn bans possible during extended drought in any season.
What You Can Burn in Arkansas
Natural vegetation, yard debris, agricultural crop residue. No prohibited materials. Timber and silvicultural burns have separate permit pathways for commercial forestry operations.
- Leaves and natural yard debris
- Brush, branches, and untreated natural wood
- Downed trees from your property (unpainted, untreated)
- Agricultural crop residue (with appropriate permit)
Frequently Asked Questions — Arkansas
Call your county Arkansas Forestry Commission ranger station. They'll ask where you're burning, what you're burning, and current conditions. If appropriate, they'll issue a permit number over the phone. The full list of county contacts is at agriculture.arkansas.gov/forestry.
The AFC can require permits year-round but enforces most actively during spring (February–April) and fall (October–November) dry periods. Summer is generally lower-risk due to humidity. Always call your county ranger before burning.
No — standard AFC permit process applies to storm debris burning. Contact your county ranger station. After major storm events, rangers understand the urgency and may expedite permits and provide guidance on the fastest legal approach.